A radical history of Wales
This is the final instalment on the radical histories of Britain.
Next week I will write a radical history of Ireland, which will bring this series to a close! Radical history is more than just the history of the Royal family or the elites; it is the history of ordinary working people.
Please enjoy the following short list of crucial events in the radical history of Wales!
Wales has a very strong radical tradition, characterised by strike movements and protests; as with Scotland, the small country’s history is scattered with rebellion and Riots, not only against English hegemony but also in favour of equality for working people.
1. Welsh rebellion against English rule, 1200s
The 1200s in Wales was marked by rebellion against English rule, and efforts for Welsh sovereignty. The Welsh rebellions against English rule in the 1200s, led by figures like Llywelyn the Great and Llywelyn ap Gruffydd, aimed to maintain Welsh autonomy and independence.
Fueled by cultural, political, and territorial grievances, the Welsh launched various uprisings against English kings like Henry III and Edward I. These conflicts resulted in periods of resistance, truces, and conquests, culminating in the conquest of Wales by Edward I in the late 13th century. The rebellion highlighted the struggle for Welsh identity and self-governance against English dominance, ultimately shaping the historical and cultural narrative of Wales.
2. Owain Glyndŵr’s Revolt (1400s)
Owain Glyndŵr’s Revolt, beginning in 14000 was a Welsh uprising against English rule that aimed to restore Welsh independence. Led by Owain Glyndŵr’s, the revolt was initially successful, capturing English strongholds and gaining support.
The revolt’s peak came in 1404, when Glyndŵr established a Welsh parliament. However, English counterattacks weakened his position, and by 1410, momentum waned. Despite persistent resistance, the revolt ultimately failed.
3. Merthyr Rising (1831)
The Merthyr Rising of 1831 was a workers’ protest in Merthyr Tydfil, Wales, driven by terrible working conditions, low wages, and high food prices. Miners and ironworkers demanded better treatment by the ruling class.
The uprising escalated into violence, with protesters clashing with authorities and even taking control of the town briefly. The government called in troops to suppress the revolt, killing some protesters and leading to many arrests.
Although the uprising was suppressed, it highlighted socio-economic disparities and contributed to the broader Chartist movement advocating for workers’ rights and democratic reforms in the UK during the 19th century.
4. Rebecca Riots, 1839–1843
The Rebecca Riots (1839–1843) were a series of agrarian protests in rural Wales, primarily in the counties of Carmarthenshire, Pembrokeshire, and Cardiganshire. Named after the mythical figure of Rebecca, protesters disguised themselves and destroyed toll gates, which symbolized economic oppression.
The riots were sparked by grievances over tolls, high taxes, and unfair land tenure practices that burdened farmers and rural communities. The movement aimed to bring attention to rural poverty and demand social and economic reforms. The riots prompted government action, leading to changes in tolls and improved conditions for tenant farmers, highlighting the power of collective action in addressing injustices.
5. The Newport Chartist Riot, 1839
The Newport Chartist Riot saw Chartists, advocating for significant political reforms, clash with authorities during a protests. Troops fired on demonstrators, resulting in tens of casulties. The incident highlighted Chartism’s demand for universal suffrage and social justice, ultimately influencing democratic reforms. Lady Rhondda’s activism and the Newport Riot reflected broader struggles for political and gender equality in 19th and 20th-century Wales.
6. South Wales Miners’ Strike, 1910–1911, 1926
The Welsh miners' strikes in 1910-1911 and 1926 were incredibly important strike movements in Wales. The 1910-1911 strikes, also known as the Tonypandy Riots, involved coal miners protesting against wage cuts and poor working conditions. The conflict escalated into violent clashes with authorities, where many miners were injured. The 1926 General Strike was a nationwide event, and workers from across the UK walked out of their workplaces to demand better treatment by employers. Welsh miners played a prominent role. Miners walked out in support of coal industry workers facing reduced wages and longer hours.
7. Aberfan Disaster, 1966
The Aberfan disaster occurred on October 21, 1966, in the small village of Aberfan in South Wales.
A coal mining waste tip collapsed, burying a primary school and nearby houses with slurry, resulting in the tragic deaths of 144 people, including 116 children. The catastrophe was attributed to poor management of the tip and inadequate safety measures. The incident prompted widespread outrage and calls for stricter mining regulations. It led to legal proceedings, including an inquiry that revealed negligence by the National Coal Board.
The Aberfan disaster had a profound impact on safety regulations, mining practices, and public awareness of industrial hazards.
8. 1984–1985 The Miners Strike
The 1984-1985 miners' strike was a watershed moment for the British trade union movement in the 1980s. Sparked by Thatcher’s plans to close coal mines, the strike led by the National Union of Mineworkers (NUM) aimed to protect the jobs of thousands of liners, and their communities. Welsh miners played a key role, with many participating in the strike, which lasted for a year. The strike was marked by clashes with police, legal battles, and solidarity efforts. Despite support, the strike ultimately ended without complete success. This loss was a major blow for the trade union movement in England and Wales.
